Benjamin Goodrum

Benjamin Goodrum, a 22-year-old from Seacombe, Wirral, engaged in a campaign of sexual abuse against a vulnerable child. He initiated contact through WhatsApp, grooming her by requesting explicit images, including a picture of her in her bra, and sending her a photo of his penis along with a video of himself performing a sex act. Despite her attempts to ignore him, Goodrum persisted, leading to multiple instances of molestation and rape.

The abuse was uncovered when the victim's parents discovered the disturbing messages on her phone. Goodrum initially admitted to touching the girl inappropriately twice but denied further involvement. However, upon police interview, the victim revealed the full extent of the 'horrendous' abuse, describing it as a sustained campaign. Goodrum, previously of good character, pleaded guilty to three counts of rape, three counts of attempted rape, causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, three counts of sexual assault of a child, four counts of assault by penetration, and one count of sexual activity with a child.

At Liverpool Crown Court, Judge David Aubrey QC described Goodrum as 'an offender of particular concern' due to the severity and nature of his crimes. He was sentenced to 10 years in prison, with an extended one year on licence. The case was reported by the Liverpool Echo on 17 July 2021, highlighting the grooming tactics and the impact on the victim.